Model 28 no dash Siblings

[Alan52]

I received my letter today concerning my Model 28, Four Screw Variation, S/N S18890x. It was shipped on March 30, 1959, to Union Hardware & Metal Co., Los Angeles, CA. It was shipped with a 6 inch barrel, brush blue finish, and checkered walnut grips. Additionally, it was 1 of a 10 unit order, all in the same configuration. Target grips were added after it left the factory.

I'd be interested in hearing if anyone here has one of the other nine Model 28 revolvers that went out west with mine. Also, I'd appreciate it if anyone could provide any additional information concerning this 10-unit order or the hardware store

Thanks

 

[Thanos23RED]

Some early information copied directly from:
Los Angeles Herald, Volume 33, Number 302, 29 July 1906

Union Hardware and Metal Company

Among the well known substantial wholesale houses in Los Angeles Is the Union Hardware and Metal company. This firm is one of the pioneers identified with the early business interests of the city. The company was organized in 1872 with a capital stock of fUOO.OOO.

Since that date business has increased so considerably that the company reorganized and Incorporated with a capital stock of $1,500,000. It is now one of the strongest institutions in the west, and at present is handling the major portion of the hardware and nu-tal business of the Pacific coast. The Union company recently moved to more commodious quarters, as increased business demanded more space and better equipment. Now located at First and Alameda streets the establishment commands a floor space of four and a half acres.

A working force of 146 men is necessary to handle the immense volume of business. This firm does an exclusive Jobbing business In general hardware and other kindred lines that go to make up a complete stock. The officers of the company are well known representative business men of Los Angeles, and include: E McLaughlin. president; Joseph Schoder vice president; L. C. Sclieller. treasurer and general manager, und E. C Haskell secretn ry.

In the past the extensive business done by this firm has been a source of much wealth to the commercial Interests of the southwest with Increased facilities and enlarged interests. The scope of this firm's business will naturally widen, and the influence such an organization will play in the great prosperity of our city can readily be appreciated. Such organizations are the bone and sinew of a city's commercial life.

 

[The Gila Bender]

I have a Union Hardware Highway Patrolman. 4", blue, S114081 shipped July 20, 1954. Not a sibling, more like an older cousin.

 

[Alan52]

Gila Bender; do you have any other historical info about your 28, besides the date and location it was shipped to? Thanks

 

[The Gila Bender]

Gila Bender; do you have any other historical info about your 28, besides the date and location it was shipped to? Thanks

The historical letter from Roy Jinks does not state if this Highway Patrolman was a single shipment or if it was part of a larger shipment. The letter states that the first production revolvers were completed in March 1954 beginning at approximately S103500. My Highway Patrolman, S114081, was possibly the 10,581st unit produced. I do not know if this falls within the first production run. Perhaps a reasonably knowledgeable Highway Patrolman enthusiast will provide the answer.

The original owner carved his name and the year on the inside of one of the stock panels. I bought it in 2010 from an Arizona resident who appeared to be in his mid to late 30's. He told me he bought it from an older gent in Orange County, CA several years earlier. He did not know anything about "D. Wood". Given the condition of the revolver (zero wear or indication having been fired) and the original box I assume that it belonged to an individual collector rather than a police officer. No way to know for certain. It's just a really nice first year Highway Patrolman...with a number matching box.

 

[Alan52]

Gila Bender,
Thanks for the information. You've got a great looking 28 there, even more special with the original box.

 

[bananaman]

Sir.
I have a pair of 6 inch Model 28's. Both 4 screw and both a No Dash.
S201XXX and S214XXX. I have no idea of their history. Both have been well used. Some what later than your order time frame.
Bill@Yuma

Not too far off yours.......S2011xx. 1960. Bob